Wardell game winner of opener at Limerick

Wardell produced a game front-running performance to claim the opening colts and geldings maiden at Limerick this afternoon.

Wayne Lordan was soon in front on the 9/2 shot in the mile contest and he had his rivals at work passing the two furlong pole.

The well backed 2/1 favourite Hobart (7/2 in morning) was rousted along before halfway by Joseph O'Brien and disputed second with Chenega Bay in the straight.

That pair stayed on inside the final furlong to press the eventual winner but the Rip Van Winkle colt held on to record a neck success.

Chenega Bay won the battle for second with a further half length back to Hobart.

The winner had been fifth on his return to action at Leopardstown ten days ago and was dropping back from ten furlongs then.

"Wayne was good on him and the plan was to make the running," said Wachman afterwards.

"I thought he'd stay further but maybe that's his trip. We'll see how he is treated (by the handicapper) and take baby steps."

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)